Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

More on Columbia

Posted by michael on from the foamology dept.

RodeoBoy writes "It seems that regardless of what NASA and Boeing wants the public to believe there are still questions about damage to the shuttle's left wing. Some Boeing engineers have raised concerns that proper analysis of the damage was not done at the time, due to changes and cutbacks in Boeing. It is also coming out that more than one chunk of foam might have hit and damaged the wing. With Boeing having some financial troubles and NASA under public scrutiny again, what is the future of the space shuttle program..."

4 of 471 comments (clear)

  1. Spiro Agnew Is My Cousin by Acidic_Diarrhea · · Score: 0, Offtopic
    I don't think that when Columbia blew up, the citizens of countries whose opinion I care about were thinking, "Ah, stupid Americans..." You think that suddenly because of Columbia, we can longer have pride in our space program? But, we've lost a shuttle in the past. Were we able to still have pride then? Or was two the magic number? After two shuttle explosions, we can't have any more pride? Who set this number? Was it you? What are your credentials?

    Now, I believe with other countries beginning to make more forays into space, the American shuttle program will be looked at as an innovative first step towards reaching the goal of cheap space flight. I don't think it will be seen as a failure. The fact that we have a fleet of vehicles which can be sent into space time and time again is quite extraordinary in and of itself. The rest of the world looks at our program as something which has paved the way for what they are doing. It is because we have already forged ahead that many countries are following.

    Ultimately, it is worth the money to keep investing in NASA. The money needs to be monitored and we need to ensure that new goals of safer and better space flight are being met.

    To me, you sound like Chicken Little. One explosion does not an administration destroy young grasshopper.

    --
    I hate liberals. If you are a liberal, do not reply.
  2. Re:The future? Just like the past should be... by DoorFrame · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    You mention Jerry Pournelle and don't mention his best work "Footfall"! How can you not mention a book about two trunked elephants from outer space who invade Kansas? It just doesn't get better.

    --

    --
    RumorsDaily
  3. Re:The future? Just like the past should be... by canadian_right · · Score: 0, Offtopic
    Footfall was ok. The Mote in God's Eye was much better! and you didn't mention that Larry niven is the co-author (of both books)

    --
    Anarchists never rule
  4. Re:The future? Just like the past should be... by snake_dad · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    Try "Falkenbergs Legion". It's more about war than science fiction but a fun read anyway.

    --
    karma capped .sig seeking available Slashdot poster for long-term relationship.